Multi-display sysyem and display apparatus constituting multi-display sysyem

Abstract

A multi-display apparatus comprising: a source device; a main display apparatus directly connected to the source device among a plurality of display apparatuses; and a sub-display apparatus not directly connected to the source device among the plurality of display apparatuses, wherein: the plurality of display apparatuses are connected to each other while forming a data channel; the main display apparatus obtains connection data between the plurality of display apparatuses through the data channel, determines horizontal and vertical connection structures on the basis of the connection data, converts preset extended display identification data (EDID) of the plurality of display apparatuses into multi-EDIDs on the basis of the horizontal and vertical connection structures, and transmits the multi-EDID to the source device; and the plurality of display apparatuses may receive a processed image signal generated by processing an image signal from the source device to correspond to the multi-EDID, and display an image on the basis of the processed image signal.

Description

Multi-display device, display devices that make up a multi-display device

[0001] The present invention relates to a multi-display device capable of recognizing multiple displays as a single display and performing control, and a display device constituting the multi-display device.

[0002] The display device may include various connection interfaces for connecting to external devices (e.g., a source device or another display device). For example, the display device may include a High Definition Multimedia Interface (HDMI).

[0003] When connecting multiple display devices to a single source device, the screen can be extended or merged into a multi-display. Previously, multi-display required connecting the source device and each display via multiple cables.

[0004] At this time, complex cable connections were a major issue, increasing the likelihood of initial installation errors. Furthermore, the more connected displays, the more display settings had to be adjusted for each display, resulting in user inconvenience.

[0005] The disclosed invention provides a multi-display device capable of operating and managing a plurality of display devices as a single multi-display device, and a display device constituting the multi-display device.

[0006] According to one embodiment, a multi-display device includes a source device, a main display device directly connected to the source device among a plurality of display devices, and a sub-display device not directly connected to the source device among the plurality of display devices, wherein the plurality of display devices are connected to each other by forming a data channel, and the main display device obtains connection data between the plurality of display devices through the data channel, determines horizontal and vertical connection structures based on the connection data, converts preset EDIDs (Extended Display Identification Data) of the plurality of display devices into multi-EDIDs based on the horizontal and vertical connection structures, and transmits the multi-EDID to the source device, and the plurality of display devices receive a processed image signal generated by processing an image signal from the source device to correspond to the multi-EDID, and displays an image based on the processed image signal.

[0007] In one embodiment, a multi-display device may include a display device directly connected to a source device among a plurality of display devices constituting the display device, the display device comprising: a display panel; a communication unit for performing communication between the display device and the source device; a connection unit for connecting to another display device among the plurality of display devices excluding the display device; and at least one processor for obtaining connection data with the other display device through the connection unit, determining horizontal and vertical connection structures based on the connection data, converting a preset EDID (Extended Display Identification Data) of the display device into a multi-EDID based on the horizontal and vertical connection structures, transmitting the multi-EDID to the source device, receiving a processed image signal generated by processing an image signal from the source device to correspond to the multi-EDID, and displaying an image based on the processed image signal.

[0008] According to the disclosed multi-display device, and the display devices constituting the multi-display device, according to one embodiment, the main display device can control the multi-display composed of a plurality of displays to operate as a single display based on the plurality of display devices being connected through a data channel.

[0009] Accordingly, the user can set the settings of multiple displays that constitute the multi-display in batches by entering the settings through the OSD menu of the main display.

[0010] Additionally, the main display device can convert the EDID to correspond to the recognized multi-display device and transmit it to the source device, and process the video signal received from the source device according to the mode of the multi-display device. Accordingly, a single, unified content is provided to the user through each display device without black letterboxing, thereby improving the user experience of the multi-display device.

[0011] The technical problems to be achieved in the present disclosure are not limited to the technical problems mentioned above, and other technical problems not mentioned can be clearly understood by a person having ordinary skill in the technical field to which the present disclosure belongs from the description below.

[0012] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating a multi-display device according to one embodiment.

[0013] FIG. 2 is a drawing illustrating another example of a multi-display device according to one embodiment.

[0014] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a display device constituting a multi-display device according to one embodiment.

[0015] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a conceptual diagram of a connection part constituting a data channel according to one embodiment.

[0016] FIG. 5 is a diagram illustrating a state before a pair of connectors forms a data channel according to one embodiment.

[0017] FIG. 6 is a diagram illustrating a state in which a pair of connecting parts form a data channel according to one embodiment.

[0018] FIG. 7 is a control block diagram of a display device that configures a plurality of multi-display devices according to one embodiment.

[0019] FIG. 8 is a control flowchart of a main display device control unit for causing multiple display devices to function as one multi-display device according to one embodiment.

[0020] FIG. 9 is a control flowchart of a main display control unit for causing multiple displays to function as one multi-display, following FIG. 8, according to one embodiment.

[0021] FIG. 10 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a source device, a main display device, and a sub display device in a multi-display device according to FIG. 9.

[0022] FIG. 11 is a control flowchart of a main display device control unit for causing multiple display devices to function as one multi-display device according to another embodiment.

[0023] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a source device, a main display device, and a sub display device in a multi-display device according to FIG. 11.

[0024] It should be understood that the various embodiments and terms used in this document are not intended to limit the technical features described in this document to specific embodiments, but rather to encompass various modifications, equivalents, or alternatives of the embodiments.

[0025] In connection with the description of the drawings, similar reference numerals may be used for similar or related components.

[0026] The singular form of a noun corresponding to an item may include one or more items, unless the context clearly indicates otherwise.

[0027] In this document, each of the phrases "A or B", "at least one of A and B", "at least one of A or B", "A, B, or C", "at least one of A, B, and C", and "at least one of A, B, or C" can include any one of the items listed together in that phrase, or all possible combinations thereof. For example, "at least one of A, B, and C" can refer to A, B, C, a combination of A and B, a combination of A and C, a combination of B and C, or a combination of A, B, and C.

[0028] Terms such as "first," "second," or "first" or "second" may be used simply to distinguish one component from another and do not limit the components in any other respect (e.g., importance or order).

[0029] When a component (e.g., a first component) is referred to as being “coupled” or “connected” to another component (e.g., a second component), with or without the terms “functionally” or “communicatively,” it means that the component can be connected to the other component directly (e.g., wired), wirelessly, or through a third component.

[0030] The terms “include” or “have” are intended to specify the presence of a feature, number, step, operation, component, part or combination thereof described in this document, but do not preclude the presence or addition of one or more other features, numbers, steps, operations, components, parts or combinations thereof.

[0031] When a component is said to be “connected,” “coupled,” “supported,” or “in contact with” another component, this includes not only cases where the components are directly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact, but also cases where the components are indirectly connected, coupled, supported, or in contact through a third component.

[0032] When we say that a component is "on" another component, this includes not only cases where the component is in contact with the other component, but also cases where there is another component between the two components.

[0033] The term “and / or” includes any combination of a plurality of related described elements or any one of a plurality of related described elements.

[0034] The operating principle and embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the attached drawings below.

[0035] FIG. 1 is a drawing illustrating an example of a multi-display device (10) according to one embodiment.

[0036] According to various embodiments, the multi-display device (10) may include a plurality of display devices arranged in rows or a plurality of display devices arranged in columns.

[0037] For example, referring to FIG. 1, a plurality of display devices can be connected horizontally to form a multi-display device (10).

[0038] For example, in the multi-display device (10) illustrated in Fig. 1, n display devices (201, 202, 203, 200+n) can be connected horizontally, and at this time, the n display devices (201, 202, 203,,,,200+n) can be directly or indirectly connected to each other while forming n-1 data channels.

[0039] At this time, the plurality of display devices (201, 202, 203,,,,200+n) constituting the multi-display device (10) can be divided into a display device (e.g., the display device (200) of FIG. 1) directly connected to the source device (100) through a connection interface (e.g., the cable (c1) of FIG. 1), and other plurality of display devices (e.g., the display devices (201, 202, 203,,,,200+n) of FIG. 1) directly or indirectly connected to the display device. Hereinafter, the display device directly connected to the source device (100) will be referred to as the main display device, and the display device directly or indirectly connected to the main display device will be referred to as the sub-display device.

[0040] Figure 2 is a drawing showing another example of a multi-display device (10) according to one embodiment.

[0041] According to one embodiment, a plurality of display devices can be connected longitudinally to form a multi-display device (10).

[0042] For example, referring to FIG. 2, m display devices (200, 210, 220 ⅓ 200+10m) can be connected longitudinally, and at this time, the m display devices (200, 210, 220 ⅓ 200+10m) can be directly or indirectly connected to each other while forming m-1 data channels.

[0043] At this time, the plurality of display devices (200, 210, 220 쪋 200+10m) constituting the multi-display device (10) can be divided into a display device (e.g., the display device (200) of FIG. 2) directly connected to the source device (100) through a connection interface (e.g., the cable (c1) of FIG. 2), and other plurality of display devices (e.g., the display device of FIG. 2 (e.g., 210, 220 쪋 200+10m of FIG. 2)) directly or indirectly connected to the display device. As described above, the display device (200) directly connected to the source device (100) can be the main display, and the plurality of display devices (210, 220 쪋 200+10m) directly or indirectly connected to the display device (200) can be sub-display devices.

[0044] According to various embodiments, the multi-display device (10) may have multiple display devices connected longitudinally and transversely according to the connection method described in FIGS. 1 and 2. As described above, when multiple display devices are connected longitudinally and transversely, they may be divided into one main display device and multiple sub-display devices.

[0045] According to various embodiments, a matrix can be formed by connecting longitudinally and transversely. A variety of display arrangement states that constitute a multi-display device can be achieved.

[0046] A multi-display device (10) according to various embodiments may include a plurality of display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n) arranged in rows and columns as illustrated in FIG. 1.

[0047] In other words, multiple display devices can be arranged in a matrix form. For example, multiple display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n) can be arranged in a matrix form of m rows and n columns.

[0048] Each of the plurality of display devices (for example, 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n) is a device that processes image data and can visually display an image. Each of the plurality of display devices (for example, 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n) can be implemented in various forms such as a television (TV), a monitor, a portable multimedia device, a portable communication device, a portable computing device, etc., and the form is not limited as long as it is a device that visually displays an image.

[0049] Among a plurality of display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n), the display device (200) may include a main body that accommodates a plurality of components for displaying an image, and a screen provided on one side of the main body to display a portion of the image. The display devices (e.g., 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222) may be the same as the above-described display device (200).

[0050] The main body forms the outer shape of the display device (200), and components for displaying images by the display device (200) may be provided inside the main body. The main body illustrated in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2 has a flat plate shape, but the shape of the main body is not limited to that illustrated in FIG. 1 or FIG. 2. For example, the main body may have a curved shape with both left and right ends protruding forward and a concave center.

[0051] A screen is formed on the front of the main body, and the screen can display visual information, such as an image. For example, the screen can display still images or moving images, and can display two-dimensional planar images or three-dimensional stereoscopic images. The screen illustrated in Fig. 1 or 2 has a flat plate shape, but the shape of the screen is not limited to that illustrated in Fig. 1 or 2. For example, depending on the shape of the main body, the screen can have a curved shape such that the left and right ends protrude forward and the center is concave.

[0052] A plurality of pixels (P) are formed on the screen, and an image displayed on the screen can be formed by a combination of light emitted from the plurality of pixels (P). For example, a single image (I) can be formed on the screen by combining the light emitted from the plurality of pixels (P) like a mosaic.

[0053] Each of the plurality of pixels (P) can emit light of various brightness and colors. To emit light of various brightness, each of the plurality of pixels (P) may include a component capable of directly emitting light (e.g., a light-emitting diode or an organic light-emitting diode) or a component capable of transmitting or blocking light emitted by a backlight unit or the like (e.g., a backlight unit and a liquid crystal panel).

[0054] In order to emit light of various colors, each of the plurality of pixels (P) may include sub-pixels (PR, PG, PB). The sub-pixels (PR, PG, PB) may include a red sub-pixel (PR) capable of emitting red light, a green sub-pixel (PG) capable of emitting green light, and a blue sub-pixel (PB) capable of emitting blue light. For example, the red light may represent light with a wavelength of approximately 620 nm (nanometer, one billionth of a meter) to 750 nm, the green light may represent light with a wavelength of approximately 495 nm to 570 nm, and the blue light may represent light with a wavelength of approximately 450 nm to 495 nm.

[0055] By combining the red light of the red subpixel (PR), the green light of the green subpixel (PG), and the blue light of the blue subpixel (PB), each of the plurality of pixels (P) can emit light of various brightness and various colors.

[0056] According to one embodiment, a multi-display device (10) including a plurality of display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n) can display a separate image by each of the plurality of display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n) forming one screen.

[0057] According to one embodiment, a multi-display device (10) including a plurality of display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n) may integrally form a single screen. In other words, the screen of the multi-screen device (10) is formed by a combination of the screens of the plurality of display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n), and the multi-display device (10), that is, the plurality of display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n), may integrally display a single image.

[0058] At this time, each of the plurality of display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n) can display a part of the image displayed on the entire screen. Each of the plurality of display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n) can occupy a part of the screen area according to its arrangement, and can output different parts of the entire image according to its arrangement.

[0059] A multi-display device (10) can receive image data from a source device (100) through image data transmission lines and display an image corresponding to the received image data.

[0060] According to one embodiment, image data can be transmitted and received through a data channel between a plurality of display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n) constituting a multi-display device (10), as described below with reference to FIGS. 3 to 6.

[0061] The source device (100) may include a storage medium capable of storing content including video and audio, or may receive content from an external content source (e.g., a video streaming service server). For example, the image processing device (100) may store a file of content data in the storage medium, or receive content data from an external content source.

[0062] The source device (100) can decode content data to convert content data stored in a storage medium or received from an external content source into video data. For example, the content data can be compressed / encoded according to a video compression standard such as MPEG (Moving Picture Experts Group) or HEVC (High Efficiency Video Coding), and the source device (100) can decode the compressed / encoded content data into video data representing a video frame.

[0063] The source device (100) can transmit the entire image data to the multi-display device (10). The source device (100) can transmit the image data to the multi-display device (10) in parallel or serially. In other words, the image data can be directly transmitted from the source device (100) to each of the plurality of display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n), or can be sequentially transmitted from the source device (100) to the plurality of display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n).

[0064] For example, image data output from a source device (100) may be provided to a first display device (e.g., 200) connected to the source device (10) through an interface among a plurality of display devices, received by a second display device (e.g., 201) via the first display device (200), and provided to a third display device (e.g., 202) via the second display device (201). In this manner, image data may be provided to the fourth to ninth display devices (e.g., 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222), respectively.

[0065] The first to ninth displays (e.g., 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222) can each display an image based on corresponding image data.

[0066] The display device (200) and the first to ninth display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222) can extract a portion of the image frame data of the entire image according to each position, and display an image (a portion of the entire image) corresponding to the extracted portion of the image data.

[0067] For example, the first to ninth display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222) each store a unique identification number according to their positions, and can extract a portion of the image data of the entire image based on the unique identification number. The display device (200) located in the first row and the first column can store the unique identification number '11'. The display device (200) in the first row and the first column can divide the entire image into nine regions, three horizontal and three vertical, according to the unique identification number '11', and extract the image data of the upper left region among the nine regions. In addition, the display device (200) can display an image corresponding to the image frame data of the upper left region.

[0068] In this way, each of the first to ninth display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222) can display a portion of an image, and a single integrated image can be displayed by combining images output by the display device (200) and each of the first to ninth display devices (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222).

[0069] According to the present disclosure, only the main display needs to be connected to the source device (100) through a connection interface such as a wire, and the sub display does not need to be connected with a cable, thereby reducing the possibility of initial installation errors due to the complexity of cable connection.

[0070] Below, the configuration of the display device constituting the multi-display device (10) is described.

[0071] FIG. 3 is a drawing illustrating a display device constituting a multi-display device according to one embodiment.

[0072] According to one embodiment, a side of a display device (e.g., 200) constituting a multi-display device (10) may include a connection portion (300a) that can be directly connected to other display devices constituting the multi-display device (10). In the present disclosure, the display device (200) is described as an example, but it is obvious to those skilled in the art that the same can be applied to other display devices (e.g., 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222) constituting the multi-display device (10).

[0073] According to one embodiment, the display device (200) may include at least one connecting portion (300a, 300a', 300a'', 300 ''') on a side. Each connecting portion (300a, 300a', 300a'', 300 ''') may be included on at least one of the upper side, the lower side, the left side, and the right side of the display (200).

[0074] In a multi-display device (10), a plurality of display devices (e.g., 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222) can be connected to each other by directly contacting each other through a connecting portion.

[0075] FIG. 4 is a diagram illustrating a conceptual diagram of a connection part (300a) constituting a data channel (300) according to one embodiment.

[0076] Referring to FIG. 4, a connection part (300a) according to one embodiment may include a fastening part (301), an image data port (302), a setting value data port (303), and / or a sensor (304). According to one embodiment, the connection parts (300a, 300a', 300a'', 300 ''') provided in the display device (100) may all have the same structure. In addition, connection parts provided in other display devices (e.g., 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222) coupled with the display device (200) may also have data channels of the same or compatible specifications as the connection parts of the display device (200).

[0077] The fastening member (301) may be implemented with a structure or material that maintains the connection so that two display devices connected through the connecting member (300a) do not become separated from each other. For example, the fastening member (301) may include a fastening magnet having sufficient magnetic strength to withstand the load of the display device (200) or another display device (e.g., 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222)) or to prevent them from being easily separated.

[0078] For example, two displays can be coupled to each other by contact caused by the magnetic force between the N pole of the magnet provided in the fastening portion (301) of the display (200) and the S pole provided in one of the other display devices (e.g., 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222).

[0079] Additionally, the fastening portion (301) may have a structure for mechanically connecting two displays. For example, the fastening portion (301) may have a buckle or a protruding structure.

[0080] The image data port (302) can be connected to an image data port of another display device (e.g., 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222) when a connection is made between display devices through the contact point (300). Through this, an image data line for exchanging image data between the display device (200) and another display device (e.g., 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222) can be connected. The display device (200) can transmit data to be output to another display device (e.g., 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222) via the image data port (302).

[0081] If there is another display device (e.g., 202) indirectly connected to the display device (200) via another display device (e.g., 201), the display device (200) can transmit image data to be output from another display device (203) to the other display device (201). In this case, a command to transmit the data to the other display device (202) can be transmitted together with the data.

[0082] The setting value data port (303) can be connected to the setting value data port (303) of another display device (e.g., 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222) when a connection is made between display devices through the connection portion (300a). Through this, a setting value data line for exchanging display setting values ​​between the display device (200) and another display device (e.g., 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222) can be connected.

[0083] Through this, the display device (200) can transmit information related to the brightness, contrast, and color settings of another display device (e.g., 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222) to another display device (e.g., 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220, 221, 222).

[0084] Additionally, if there is another display device (e.g., 202) indirectly connected to the display device (200) via another display device (e.g., 201), the display device (200) can transmit setting data to be applied to another display device (203) to the other display device (201). In this case, a command to transmit the data to the other display device (202) can be transmitted together with the data.

[0085] The connecting portion (300a) may further include a sensor (304). According to one embodiment, the first connecting portion (300a) of the display device (200) may be in contact with a second connecting portion (300b) disposed on a side of another display device (e.g., the display device (201)). Accordingly, at least a portion of one side (e.g., the right side) of the first display device (200) on which the first data channel is disposed may be in contact with one side (e.g., the left side) of the other display device (201) on which the second data channel is disposed.

[0086] The sensor (304) can detect whether a connection between the first data channel and the second contact point has been made between the display devices.

[0087] For example, the sensor (304) may include a magnetic sensor or magnetometer that detects the proximity of a magnet or a change in a magnetic field. In this case, the sensor (304) may detect a changing magnetic field or resistance as the magnet included in the connection portion (301) of the first data channel and the magnet included in the connection portion of the second data channel approach each other. When a pair of magnets approach each other, a magnetic material or component within the sensor (304) may be affected by the magnetic field or resistance and generate an electrical signal.

[0088] The sensor (304) can transmit the generated electrical signal to the control unit (400) of the display (200).

[0089] According to various embodiments, the connecting portion (300a) may include at least one of the aforementioned configurations.

[0090] According to various embodiments, the connecting portion (300a) may be implemented in a form in which some of the above-described configurations are omitted, or may additionally include other configurations for performing the function of the connecting portion (300a).

[0091] Hereinafter, with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6, it is described that a plurality of display devices are connected by forming a data channel (300) through a connecting portion (300a).

[0092] FIG. 5 is a drawing showing a state before a pair of connecting parts (300a, 300b) according to one embodiment form a data channel (300).

[0093] According to one embodiment, a pair of adjacent displays (200, 201) may be connected such that each of the connecting portions (300a, 300b) forms a data channel (300).

[0094] The state of Fig. 5 represents a state in which the first connection part (300a) of the display (200) and the connection part (300b) of the adjacent other display (201) are separated from each other. In this case, the permanent magnets (301a, 301b) located at both ends may be located within a specific space inside the connection part (300a, 300b) due to other magnetic or mechanical influences.

[0095] In addition, the connecting portions (300a, 300b) may include image data lines (302a, 302b), setpoint data lines (303a, 303b), sensors (304), and / or ground lines (305a, 305b). At this time, each wiring structure may be implemented in a form in which one end is exposed on the surface of the connecting portions (300a, 300b). It may be circuit-coupled to another connecting portion through the exposed area. A pair of connecting portions (300a and 300b) that are circuit-coupled may form a data channel (300). In various embodiments, at least one of the image data lines (302a, 302b), setpoint data lines (303a, 303b), sensors (304), and ground lines (305a, 305b) may be omitted, or a configuration necessary for data exchange may be added.

[0096] According to various embodiments, the sensor (304) may have a different arrangement than that illustrated in FIG. 5. For example, it may be arranged outside the permanent magnets (301a, 301b), or may be arranged above or below the lines. That is, any location suitable for detecting a magnetic field or resistance that changes according to a change in the distance between a pair of magnets may be employed as the location of the sensor (304). Furthermore, although the present disclosure describes one sensor (304) per data channel (300), multiple sensors (304) may be arranged within a single data channel (300).

[0097] FIG. 6 is a drawing showing a state in which a pair of connecting parts (300a, 300b) according to one embodiment form a data channel (300).

[0098] The state of Fig. 6 represents a state in which the first connection part (300a) of the display (200) and the connection part (300b) of another adjacent display (201) are connected to each other. For example, the state may correspond to a state in which a pair of magnets included within the first connection part (300a) and the second connection part (300b) are strongly magnetically coupled.

[0099] The data channels (300) described with reference to FIGS. 5 and 6 are exemplary and may be modified in various ways. For example, the positions of magnets, ports, and wiring structures may be changed, omitted, or added. For example, power supply wiring for supplying power to other displays (e.g., 200, 201, 202, 210, 211, 212, 220,,,, 200+10m+n) connected to the display device (200) may be added.

[0100] FIG. 7 is a control block diagram of a display device (200) that constitutes a plurality of multi-display devices (10) according to one embodiment.

[0101] FIG. 7 illustrates the configuration of a display device (200) according to one embodiment. The configuration of the display device (200) described in the present disclosure may correspond to the configurations of the main display device (200) and the sub-display device (201).

[0102] The display device (200) may include a connection unit (300a), a control unit (400), a user interface (500), an image data receiver (600), a communication unit (700), a display panel (710), a speaker (720), and a power circuit (730).

[0103] The user interface (500) may include at least one input interface (501) and at least one output interface (502).

[0104] At least one input interface (501) can convert sensory information (i.e., user input) received from a user into an electrical signal.

[0105] At least one input interface (501) may include a power input interface for turning on the display device (200) and / or a display setting input interface (e.g., an OSD (On Screen Display) menu) for receiving user input regarding display settings.

[0106] At least one input interface (41) may include, for example, a tact switch, a push switch, a slide switch, a toggle switch, a micro switch, a touch switch, a touch pad, a touch screen, a jog dial, and / or a microphone.

[0107] The setting input interface may include an interface for setting and changing various display settings (e.g., contrast, color, brightness, etc.) of the display device (200).

[0108] Additionally, the configuration input interface may include an interface for receiving user input regarding whether the multiple displays are to operate in multi-display mode or as independent displays.

[0109] At least one output interface (502) can transmit various information related to the operation of the display device (200) to the user by generating sensory information.

[0110] For example, at least one output interface (502) may transmit information based on various data directly or indirectly received from the source device (100) of the display device (200) and / or information related to the settings of the display device (200) to the user.

[0111] For example, at least one output interface (502) can also convey information about settings received through a settings input interface to the user.

[0112] Information from the display device (200) can be output through a screen, indicator, voice, etc.

[0113] At least one output interface (502) may include, for example, a display panel (510), such as a liquid crystal display (LCD) panel, a light emitting diode (LED) panel, and / or a speaker (520).

[0114] The display panel (510) can output video and / or images under the control of the control unit (400). The display panel (510) can be provided with various panels. For example, it can be provided with an LED panel, an LCD panel, an OLED panel, or an inorganic LED panel. The speaker (520) can output audio under the control of the control unit (400).

[0115] The video data receiver (600) can receive video data including video data and audio data from a source device (100) through a connection interface (e.g., cable (c1)) and transmit the video data to the control unit (400).

[0116] The power circuit (730) can supply power to components of the display device (200). The power circuit (730) can supply power to electronic components included in the display device (200). The control unit (400) can convert power transmitted from the power circuit (730) to a level suitable for each electronic component of the display device (200) and then provide the converted power to each electronic component.

[0117] The control unit (400) may include hardware such as a CPU, Micom, or memory, and software such as a control program. For example, the control unit (70) may include at least one memory (405) that stores data in the form of a program, an algorithm for controlling the operation of components within the display device (200), and at least one processor (401 to 404) that performs the operations described above and the operations to be described below using the data stored in the at least one memory (405). The memory (405) and the processor (401 to 404) may each be implemented as separate chips. The processor (401 to 404) may include one or more processor chips or one or more processing cores. The memory (405) may include one or more memory chips or one or more memory blocks. In addition, the memory (405) and the processor (401 to 404) may be implemented as a single chip.

[0118] The control unit (400) may include an image processor (401), an audio processor (402), a data processing processor (403), a main processor (404) and / or a memory (405).

[0119] The image processor (401) can process video data to be suitable for video output through the display panel (510). The audio processor (402) can process audio data to be suitable for audio output through the speaker (520).

[0120] The data processing processor (403) can process image data received from the source device (10) or user input related to display settings received through the user interface (500) into a form that can be transmitted to another display connected through the data channel (300). At this time, the generated processing data can include information regarding which display device each processing data is transmitted to.

[0121] At this time, the processor that processes the image data received from the source device (10) and the data regarding user input related to display settings received through the user interface (500) may be implemented separately or may be implemented as one processor.

[0122] The data processing processor (403) can transmit processed data to the communication unit (700) and transmit the processed data to a connected display device through the data channel (300).

[0123] Additionally, the data processing processor (403) may receive connection data of multiple display devices from the data channel (300) and generate a multi-EDID based on the connection data.

[0124] The main processor (404) can control the overall operation of the display device (200). The main processor (404) can control the operation of the display device (200) using programs, instructions, and / or data stored in the memory (405).

[0125] The main processor (404) can control the display panel (510) to output video based on video data processed by the image processor (401). The main processor (404) can control the speaker (520) to output audio based on audio data processed by the audio processor (402).

[0126] The main processor (404) may control components of the display device (200) to perform operations corresponding to user input obtained through the user interface (500). For example, the main processor (404) may control components of the display device (200) based on user input regarding display settings obtained through the user interface (500).

[0127] The memory (405) can store various information required for the operation of the display device (200). The memory (405) can store programs, data, instructions, software, and / or applications for controlling the operation of the display device (200). The memory (405) can include volatile memory such as Static Random Access Memory (S-RAM) or Dynamic Random Access Memory (D-RAM) for temporarily storing data. In addition, the memory (405) can include non-volatile memory (405) such as Read Only Memory (ROM), Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EPROM), or Electrically Erasable Programmable Read Only Memory (EEPROM) for long-term storage of data.

[0128] The memory (405) can store EDID (Extended Display Identification) containing information such as resolution and frequency. The EDID can be preset for each display device (200) during the manufacturing process.

[0129] The communication unit (60) can transmit data to an external device (e.g., a source device (100)) or receive data from an external device. For example, the communication unit (60) can establish communication with a server, a user device, and / or a home appliance, and transmit and receive various types of data.

[0130] To this end, the communication unit (60) can support the establishment of a direct (e.g., wired) or wireless communication channel between external devices, and the performance of communication through the established communication channel. For example, the communication unit (60) can be connected to the source device (100) via a cable (c1) to establish a wired communication channel.

[0131] The communication unit (700) can transmit EDID containing information about the display device (200) to the source device (100). The EDID can include information such as resolution and frequency. Accordingly, the communication unit (700) can receive video data and audio data through the TMDS channel.

[0132] The connecting portion (300a) can transmit data to an external device (e.g., a sub-display device (201)) or receive data from the external device. In this case, communication between displays can be performed through at least one data line of a data channel (300) formed by a pair of connecting portions (e.g., 300a and 300b of FIG. 5).

[0133] Hereinafter, a control method for allowing multiple displays to function as a single multi-display through communication between a source device (100), a main display device (e.g., a display device (200)), and a sub-display device (e.g., a display device (201)) will be described with reference to FIGS. 8 to 12.

[0134] FIG. 9 is a control flowchart of a main display device (200) control unit for causing multiple display devices to function as one multi-display device according to one embodiment.

[0135] According to one embodiment, the control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can determine whether connection data has been obtained from at least one data channel (300) through the communication unit (700) (1301).

[0136] The connection data includes information about whether the sub-display device (201) is directly or indirectly connected to the main display device (200) via the data channel (300). For example, the connection data may include the EDID of the sub-display device (201) that is directly or indirectly connected to the main display device (200) and a detection value detected by a sensor (304) included in a connection part (300a, 300b) that constitutes the data channel (300).

[0137] Additionally, the connection data may include information regarding whether data exchange is possible between the main display device (200) and the sub display device (201), directly or indirectly.

[0138] The control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can determine that no other sub-display is connected other than the main display device (200) (i.e., the state of FIG. 5) if connection data is not obtained from at least one data channel (300) through the communication unit (700) (NO in 1301). Accordingly, the control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can transmit the preset EDID of the main display device (200) to the source device (100) (1302).

[0139] For example, the EDID transmitted to the source device (100) may include information such as a preset resolution such as 1920x1080 (16:9).

[0140] The control unit (400) of the main display (200) can determine whether a user input regarding the multi-display mode has been received through the user interface (500) (1303) when connection data has been obtained from at least one data channel (300) through the communication unit (700) (example of 1301).

[0141] If the user sets the multi-display mode, the multiple displays can operate as a multi-display device (10). On the other hand, if the user does not set the multi-display mode, the multiple displays can operate as independent display devices by default.

[0142] If no user input regarding the multi-display mode is received through the communication unit (700) (No of 1303), the control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can determine that multiple display devices are connected (i.e., the state of FIG. 6), and that each display device operates independently.

[0143] Accordingly, the control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can transmit the preset EDID of the main display device (200) and the preset EDID of the sub-display device (201) to the source device (100). At this time, the preset EDID of the sub-display device (201) can be transmitted to the main display (200) through at least one data channel (300). The control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can transmit the received preset EDID of the sub-display device (201) to the source device (100) (1304).

[0144] When a user input regarding the multi-display mode is received through the communication unit (700) (example of 1303), the control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can determine that multiple display devices are connected (i.e., the state of FIG. 7) and that each display operates as one multi-display device (10).

[0145] Accordingly, the control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can generate a multi-EDID based on the connection structure of the multi-display device (10) (1305).

[0146] Hereinafter, an example will be described in which the preset resolution included in the EDID of the main display device (200) and the sub-display (e.g., 201) is 1920x1080 (16:9).

[0147] When n-1 sub-displays (201) are connected horizontally to the main display (200) (i.e., n display devices are connected horizontally), the multi-display device (10) can form an nx1 connection structure. Accordingly, the control unit (400) of the main display (200) can generate a multi-EDID including resolution information that converts a preset resolution of 1920x1080 (16:9) to 1920nx1080 (16n:9) based on the connection structure of the multi-display device (10).

[0148] When m-1 sub-displays (201) are vertically connected to the main display (200) (i.e., m display devices are horizontally connected), the multi-display device (10) can form a 1xm connection structure. Accordingly, the control unit (400) of the main display (200) can generate a multi-EDID including resolution information of 1920x1080m (16:9m) based on the connection structure of the multi-display device (10).

[0149] In addition, the multi-display device (10) can be formed by connecting n-1 sub-displays (201) in the horizontal direction and m-1 sub-displays (201) in the vertical direction to the main display (200) (i.e., n display devices are connected in the vertical direction and m display devices are connected in the horizontal direction). That is, the multi-display device (10) can form an nxm connection structure. Accordingly, the control unit (400) of the main display (200) can generate a multi-EDID including resolution information that converts a preset resolution of 1920x1080 (16:9) to 1920nx1080m (16n:9m) based on the connection structure of the multi-display device (10).

[0150] The control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can transmit the generated multi-EDID to the source device (100) (1306).

[0151] After that, the control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can receive a sub-processed image signal that is processed in response to the multi-EDID from the image signal received externally from the source device (100) (1307).

[0152] For example, if the multi EDID includes converted resolution information of 1920nx1080m (16n:9m), the processed video signal may include video data suitable for a display device having a resolution of 1920nx1080m (16n:9m).

[0153] The control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can divide the processed image signal to correspond to at least one sub-display (201) constituting the multi-display device (10) and generate a divided processed image signal (1308). Specifically, the division of the processed image signal can be performed by the data processing processor (403) of the control unit (400) of the main display device (200).

[0154] For example, the data processing processor (403) of the main display device (200)

[0155] Depending on the arrangement positions of the plurality of display devices including the main display device (200) and the sub display device (201), a portion of the processed image signal can be extracted. That is, the data processing processor (403) of the main display device (200) assigns a unique identification number to each of the plurality of displays according to the position through which connection data is acquired, and based on the unique identification number, a portion of the processed image signal for the entire image can be extracted.

[0156] For example, in a multi-display device (10) having a 3X3 connection structure such as Fig. 1, the control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can assign a unique identification number '12' to a display device (201) located in row 1 and column 2 based on the fact that connection data has been transmitted through 1 data channel (300) in the horizontal direction and 0 data channels in the vertical direction.

[0157] Accordingly, the data processing processor (403) of the display device (200) can divide the entire unique image into a total of nine regions, three horizontally and three vertically, and extract a processed image signal for the image at a position corresponding to the unique number '12' among the nine regions.

[0158] As described above, the data processing processor (403) of the main display device (200) can divide the processed image signal to correspond to each display device and generate a sub-processed image signal. At this time, the sum of the sub-processed image signals can constitute a processed image signal.

[0159] The control unit (400) of the main display (200) can transmit the generated sub-processing image signal to each sub-display (201) (1309).

[0160] For example, the control unit (400) of the main display (200) can control the sub-processed image signal generated by extracting image data at a position corresponding to the unique number '12' among nine areas to be transmitted to the display device (201) located in the first row and second column through one data channel (300) in the horizontal direction and zero data channels in the vertical direction.

[0161] At this time, the main display device (200) can temporarily store a sub-processing image signal corresponding to the main display (200) in the memory (405).

[0162] Accordingly, the main display device (200) can display an image (i.e., at least a part of the entire image) corresponding to the sub-processed image signal stored in the memory (405) (1310).

[0163] On the other hand, when it is determined that no other sub-display is connected other than the main display device (200) (i.e., the state of FIG. 5), and the control unit (400) of the main display device (200) transmits only the preset EDID of the main display device (200) to the source device (100) (1302), or when it is determined that multiple display devices are connected (i.e., the state of FIG. 6), and each display device operates independently, and the control unit (400) of the main display device (200) transmits the preset EDID of the display device (200) and the preset EDID of the connected sub-display device (201) to the source device (100) (1304), the operation will be described with reference to FIG. 10.

[0164] FIG. 10 is a control flowchart of a main display device (200) control unit (400) for causing multiple display devices to function as one multi-display device (10), following FIG. 9, according to one embodiment.

[0165] The control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can receive a sub-processing image signal corresponding to the main display device (200) or the sub-display device (201) from the source device (10) (1311).

[0166] Accordingly, the control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can display an image based on the received sub-processing image signal (1312) or transmit a sub-processing image signal corresponding to the sub-display device (201) to the sub-display device (201) (1313). At this time, the two operations can be performed simultaneously or sequentially.

[0167] FIG. 11 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a source device (100), a main display device (200), and a sub display device (201) in a multi-display device (10) according to FIG. 10.

[0168] Referring to FIG. 11, a series of operations described above in FIG. 10 are described in terms of the relationship between the source device (100), the main display device (200), and the sub display device (201).

[0169] According to one embodiment, a multi-display device (10) may include a source device (100), a main display device (200) directly connected to the source device among a plurality of display devices, and a sub-display device (e.g., 201) directly or indirectly connected to the main display device (200) among the plurality of display devices. In this case, there may be one or more sub-display devices.

[0170] The main display device (200) can obtain connection data through the data channel (300) (1400).

[0171] The connection data includes information regarding whether the sub-display device (201) is directly or indirectly connected to the main display device (200) via the data channel (300). For example, the connection data may include a detection value detected by a sensor (304) included in a connection portion (300a, 300b) constituting the data channel (300).

[0172] Additionally, the connection data may include information regarding whether data exchange is possible between the main display device (200) and the sub display device (201), directly or indirectly.

[0173] The main display device (200) can determine the horizontal and vertical connection structure (i.e., the connection structure of the multi-display) of the main display device (200) and at least one sub-display device (201) based on the received connection data.

[0174] Accordingly, the main display device (200) can generate a multi-EDID based on the EDID of a plurality of preset display devices and the multi-display connection structure (1401). At this time, the multi-EDID generated by the main display device (200) may correspond to the multi-EDID described, for example, in 1305 of FIG. 9.

[0175] The main display device (200) can transmit the generated multi-EDID to the source device (100) (1402).

[0176] The source device (100) can generate a processed image signal corresponding to the multi-EDID received from the outside based on the received multi-EDID (1403) and transmit the processed image signal to the main display device (200) (1404). At this time, the processed image signal transmitted by the source device (100) to the main display device (200) can correspond to the processed image signal according to the example described above in 1307 of FIG. 9.

[0177] The main display device (200) can generate a processed image signal by dividing the processed image signal received from the source device (100) into segments corresponding to each display device (200, 201). (1405) At this time, the main display device (200) can perform data processing for transmission to the sub display device (201). At this time, the generated processed data can correspond to the sub processed image signal according to the example described above in 1308 of FIG. 9.

[0178] The main display device (200) can transmit the generated sub-processed image signal to each sub-display device (e.g., 201) (1406). At this time, the method of transmitting the generated processed data to the corresponding sub-display device (201) can follow the method described above in 1309 of FIG. 9.

[0179] The main display device (200) and the sub display device (201), which have each received corresponding processing data, can display an image based on the corresponding sub processing image signal (1407 and 1408).

[0180] That is, the main display (200) and the sub display (201) can extract a portion of the image frame data of the entire image according to the connection structure, and display an image (a portion of the entire image) corresponding to the extracted portion of the image data.

[0181] In this way, each of the plurality of display devices can display a portion of an image, and a single integrated image can be displayed by combining the images output by each of the plurality of display devices. At this time, since the image data received from the source device (100) is generated in response to the multi EDID of the multi-display device (10), compared to displaying an image by receiving image data corresponding to the EDID of each of the plurality of display devices constituting the multi-display device (10), the image can be displayed without a black letter box, thereby providing a high-quality image to the user.

[0182] FIG. 11 is a control flowchart of a control unit (400) of a main display device (200) for causing multiple display devices to function as one multi-display device (10) according to one embodiment.

[0183] In one embodiment, the control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can determine whether user input regarding display settings has been received through the user interface (500) (1100).

[0184] At this time, the display settings may include user input regarding contrast, color, image quality, etc. as described above.

[0185] When the control unit (400) of the main display device (200) receives a user input regarding display settings (example of 1100), it can determine whether connection data has been obtained from at least one data channel (300) through the communication unit (700) (1101).

[0186] The control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can determine that no other sub-display is connected to the main display device (200) (i.e., the state of FIG. 4) if connection data is not obtained from at least one data channel (300) through the communication unit (700) (NO in 1101). Accordingly, the control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can control the configurations of the main display device (200) to apply setting values ​​according to user input (1102).

[0187] The control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can process data to transmit an input signal regarding display settings to the sub display device (201) through the data channel (300) when connection data is obtained from at least one data channel (300) through the communication unit (700) (example of 1101) (1103).

[0188] At this time, data processing can be performed by the data processing processor (404) of the control unit (400) of the main display device (200).

[0189] The control unit (400) of the main display device (200) can directly or indirectly transmit an input signal regarding the processed display setting value to at least one sub display device (201) via a data channel (300) (1104).

[0190] Accordingly, even if the user sets or changes only the display settings of the main display device (200), the same settings can be applied to multiple display devices constituting the multi-display device (10), thereby increasing user convenience.

[0191] FIG. 12 is a drawing for explaining the operation of a source device (100), a main display device (200), and a sub display device (201) in a multi-display device according to FIG. 11.

[0192] Referring to FIG. 12, a series of operations described above in FIG. 11 are explained in terms of the relationship between the source device (100), the main display (200), and the sub display (201).

[0193] According to one embodiment, a multi-display device (10) may include a source device (100), a main display device (200) directly connected to the source device among a plurality of display devices, and a sub-display device (e.g., 201) directly or indirectly connected to the main display device among the plurality of display devices. In this case, there may be one or more sub-display devices.

[0194] The main display device (200) can receive user input regarding display settings through the user interface (500) (1201).

[0195] At this time, the user input may include user input regarding at least one of contrast, brightness, or color.

[0196] The main display device (200) can apply settings according to received user input (1202).

[0197] Additionally, the main display device (200) can also obtain connection data through the data channel (300) (1203).

[0198] The main display device (200) can perform data processing to transmit an input signal regarding display settings to the sub display device (201) through the data channel (300) based on the acquired connection data (1204).

[0199] After that, the main display device (200) can transmit an input signal regarding the processing display setting value generated through data processing to the sub display device (201) through a data channel (1205).

[0200] The sub-display device (201) can apply the setting values ​​based on the input signal regarding the received processing display setting values ​​(1206).

[0201] According to various embodiments, at least one of the steps described above may be omitted. For example, the step of processing data for transmitting information regarding a setting value according to a user input from the main display device (200) to the sub-display device (201) may be omitted.

[0202] Additionally, steps 1202 to 1206 are not limited to the order described above in the present disclosure, and the order of steps 1202 to 1206 may be changed so that steps 1202 and 1206 can be performed simultaneously.

[0203] According to the present disclosure, a user can set or change the settings of multiple displays constituting a multi-display at once by inputting the settings through the main display.

[0204] A multi-display device (10) according to the present disclosure may include a source device (100), a main display device (200) directly connected to the source device among a plurality of display devices, and a sub-display device (201) not directly connected to the source device among the plurality of display devices.

[0205] At this time, in the multi-display device (10), the plurality of display devices are connected to each other by forming a data channel (300), and the main display device (200) obtains connection data between the plurality of display devices through the data channel, determines a horizontal and vertical connection structure based on the connection information, converts a preset EDID ((Extended Display Identification Data)) of the plurality of display devices into a multi-EDID based on the horizontal and vertical connection structure, and transmits the multi-EDID to the source device (100), and the plurality of display devices receive a processed image signal generated by processing an image signal to correspond to the multi-EDID from the source device (100), and can display an image based on the processed image signal.

[0206] The plurality of display devices may include at least one connecting portion (300a) positioned on at least one side of the plurality of display devices, and the connecting portion (300a) may include a fastening portion (301) for connecting the plurality of display devices to form a data channel, an image data port (302) for forming an image data line according to a connection between the display devices through the data channel, and a sensor (304) for detecting whether a data channel is formed by the connecting portion.

[0207] The above-mentioned fastening portion (301) may include a magnet for forming a data channel by magnetic force.

[0208] The above sensor (304) may include a magnetic sensor that detects a change in the magnetic field of the magnet to obtain the connection data.

[0209] The above connection data may include information regarding whether the plurality of display devices are connected and information regarding whether data exchange is possible between the plurality of display devices.

[0210] The main display device (200) processes the processed image signal obtained from the source device (100) to correspond to each of the plurality of display devices according to the horizontal and vertical connection structures to generate a sub-processed image signal, and the main display device (200) transmits the processed data image to the sub-display device (201) forming the data channel with the main display device (200) through the data channel (300), and the sub-display device (201) can transmit the sub-processed image signal to another sub-display device (202) forming the data channel (300) with the sub-display device (201) through the data channel (300).

[0211] The plurality of display devices can display at least a portion of the processed image signal obtained from the source device (100) based on the sub-image signal.

[0212] The above connection part (300a) may further include a setting value data port (303) for forming a setting value data line according to a connection between display devices through the data channel (300).

[0213] The plurality of display devices further include a user interface (500) that receives user input regarding display settings, and the main display device (200) transmits information regarding display settings based on user input received through the user interface (500) to the sub display (201) through the data channel (300), and the main display device (200) and the sub display device (201) can display a screen according to the display settings based on the information regarding the display settings.

[0214] The input signal regarding the above display settings may include user input regarding at least one of contrast, color, or image quality.

[0215] According to one embodiment, in a display device directly connected to a source device (100) among a plurality of display devices constituting a multi-display device (10), a display panel (710); a communication unit (700) that performs communication between the display device and the source device (100); a connection unit (300a) that connects to a display device other than the display device among the plurality of display devices; And it may include at least one processor (401 to 404) that obtains connection data with the other display device through the connection unit (300a), determines a horizontal and vertical connection structure based on the connection data, converts a preset EDID ((Extended Display Identification Data)) of the display device into a multi-EDID based on the horizontal and vertical connection structure, transmits the multi-EDID to the source device (100), receives a processed image signal generated by processing an image signal to correspond to the multi-EDID from the source device (100), and controls the display panel (710) to display an image based on the processed image signal.

[0216] The above connection part (300a); may include a fastening part (301) for connecting the display device and the other display device to form a data channel, an image data port (302) for forming an image data line according to the connection between the plurality of display devices through the data channel, and a sensor (304) for detecting whether the data channel is formed by the connection part (300a).

[0217] The above-mentioned fastening portion (301) may include a magnet for forming the data channel by magnetic force.

[0218] The above sensor (304) may include a magnetic sensor that detects a change in the magnetic field of the magnet to obtain the connection data.

[0219] The above connection data may include the EDID of the other display device, information regarding whether the plurality of display devices are connected, and information regarding whether data exchange is possible between the plurality of displays.

[0220] The at least one processor (401 to 404) may divide the acquired processed image signal into sub-processed image signals corresponding to each of the plurality of display devices according to the horizontal and vertical connection structures, thereby generating a plurality of sub-processed image signals, and transmit a sub-processed image signal corresponding to the other display device among the plurality of sub-processed image signals to the other display device through the connection unit (300a).

[0221] The at least one processor (401 to 404) can control the display device to display at least a portion of the processed image signal obtained from the source device (100) based on the sub-processed image signal.

[0222] The above connecting portion (300a) may further include a setting value data port for forming a setting value data line according to the horizontal and vertical connection structures between the plurality of display devices.

[0223] The display device further includes a user interface (500) for receiving a user input regarding a display setting value, and the at least one processor (401 to 404) can transmit an input signal regarding the display setting value received through the user interface (500) to the at least one other display device through the connection unit (300a) based on obtaining connection data between the plurality of display devices through the connection unit (300a).

[0224] The input signal regarding the above display settings may include user input regarding at least one of contrast, color, or image quality.

[0225] According to one embodiment, the main display device can control a multi-display composed of multiple displays to operate as a single display based on the multiple display devices being connected through a data channel.

[0226] Accordingly, the user can set the settings of multiple displays that constitute the multi-display by entering the settings through the OSD menu of the main display.

[0227] In addition, the main display device can change the EDID to correspond to the multi-display device (10) recognized as one and transmit it to the source device (100), and process the image data information received from the source device (100) according to the mode of the multi-display device (10). Accordingly, since a single integrated image is provided to the user through each display device without a black letterbox, the user experience of the multi-display device can be improved.

[0228] Meanwhile, the disclosed embodiments may be implemented in the form of a storage medium storing computer-executable instructions. The instructions may be stored in the form of program code, and when executed by a processor, may generate program modules to perform the operations of the disclosed embodiments.

[0229] A device-readable storage medium may be provided in the form of a non-transitory storage medium. Here, the term "non-transitory storage medium" simply means a tangible device that does not contain signals (e.g., electromagnetic waves). This term does not distinguish between cases where data is permanently stored in the storage medium and cases where data is temporarily stored. For example, a "non-transitory storage medium" may include a buffer in which data is temporarily stored.

[0230] The methods according to various embodiments disclosed in this document may be provided as included in a computer program product. The computer program product may be traded as a product between a seller and a buyer. The computer program product may be distributed in the form of a machine-readable storage medium (e.g., compact disc read-only memory (CD-ROM)), or may be distributed online (e.g., downloaded or uploaded) via an application store (e.g., Play Store™) or directly between two user devices (e.g., smartphones). In the case of online distribution, at least a portion of the computer program product (e.g., a downloadable app) may be temporarily stored or temporarily generated in a machine-readable storage medium, such as the memory of a manufacturer's server, an application store's server, or an intermediary server.

[0231] The disclosed embodiments have been described with reference to the attached drawings as described above. Those skilled in the art will understand that the present invention can be implemented in forms other than the disclosed embodiments without altering the technical spirit or essential features of the present invention. The disclosed embodiments are illustrative and should not be construed as limiting.

Claims

1. A multi-display device including a source device, a main display device directly connected to the source device among a plurality of display devices, and a sub-display device not directly connected to the source device among the plurality of display devices, The above plurality of display devices are connected to each other while forming a data channel, The main display device obtains connection data between the plurality of display devices through the data channel, determines horizontal and vertical connection structures based on the connection data, converts preset EDIDs (Extended Display Identification Data) of the plurality of display devices into multi-EDIDs based on the horizontal and vertical connection structures, and transmits the multi-EDIDs to the source device. A multi-display device that receives a processed image signal generated by processing an image signal corresponding to the multi EDID from the source device and displays an image based on the processed image signal.

2. In paragraph 1, The above plurality of display devices, comprising at least one connecting portion positioned on at least one side of the plurality of display devices; The above connection part, A multi-display device comprising a connecting portion for connecting the plurality of display devices to form a data channel, an image data port for forming an image data line according to a connection between the plurality of display devices through the data channel, and a sensor for detecting whether a data channel has been formed by the connecting portion.

3. In paragraph 2, The above fastening part is, A multi-display device comprising a magnet for forming a data channel by magnetic force.

4. In paragraph 3, The above sensor, A multi-display device including a magnetic sensor that detects changes in the magnetic field of the magnet and obtains the connection data.

5. In paragraph 4, The above connection data is, A multi-display device including information regarding whether the plurality of display devices are connected and information regarding whether data exchange is possible between the plurality of display devices.

6. In paragraph 5, The main display device generates a plurality of sub-processed image signals by dividing the processed image signal obtained from the source device into respective corresponding display devices according to the horizontal and vertical connection structures, The main display device is a display device that transmits a sub-processing image signal corresponding to the sub-display device among the plurality of sub-processing image signals to the sub-display device through the data channel.

7. In paragraph 6, The above plurality of display devices, A multi-display device that displays at least a portion of the processed image signal obtained from the source device based on the sub-image signal.

8. In paragraph 2, The above connecting part; A multi-display device further comprising a setting value data port for forming a setting value data line according to the longitudinal and transverse connection structures between the plurality of display devices.

9. In paragraph 8, The above plurality of display devices, Further comprising a user interface for receiving user input regarding display settings, The main display device transmits an input signal regarding the display setting value received through the user interface to the sub display through the data channel based on the connection data between the plurality of display devices obtained through the data channel, A multi-display device in which the main display device and the sub-display device display a screen according to the display setting value based on an input signal regarding the display setting value.

10. In paragraph 9, The input signal for the above display settings is: A multi-display device that includes user input regarding at least one of contrast, color, or image quality.

11. Among the multiple display devices that constitute a multi-display device, in the display device directly connected to the source device, display panel; A communication unit that performs communication between the display device and the source device; A connection unit connected to a display device other than the display device among the plurality of display devices; and A display device comprising at least one processor that obtains connection data with the other display device through the connection unit, determines a horizontal and vertical connection structure based on the connection data, converts a preset EDID ((Extended Display Identification Data)) of the display device into a multi-EDID based on the horizontal and vertical connection structure, transmits the multi-EDID to the source device, processes a video signal from the source device to correspond to the multi-EDID, and receives a processed video signal generated, and displays an image based on the processed video signal.

12. In paragraph 11, The above connecting part; A connection part for connecting the above display device and the other display device to form a data channel, A video data port for forming a video data line according to a connection between the plurality of display devices through the data channel, and A display device including a sensor that detects whether the data channel is formed by the connection part.

13. In paragraph 12, The above fastening part is, A display device comprising a magnet for forming the data channel by magnetic force.

14. In paragraph 13, The above sensor, A display device including a magnetic sensor that detects a change in the magnetic field of the magnet and obtains the connection data.

15. In paragraph 14, The above connection data is, A display device including the EDID of the other display device, information regarding whether the plurality of display devices are connected, and information regarding whether data exchange is possible between the plurality of displays.

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